Practice Directorate

The American Psychological Association (APA) Practice Directorate promotes the practice of psychology and the accessibility and availability of mental and behavioral health services through legislative, regulatory and judicial advocacy, public education and outreach, and research. The Practice Directorate helps develop policies and guidelines for the delivery of psychological services as well as educational material for psychologists and the public. The Practice Directorate supports members of both the APA and its companion organization, the APA Practice Organization.

Programs and Services

Guidelines for Practitioners

APA has several practice guidelines relevant to particular areas of psychological practice. The guidelines consist of recommendations to professionals concerning practice and relevant issues to be considered in specific areas of psychological practice. These guidelines are intended to educate and stimulate research.

In the Spotlight

Public Education Campaign Activities Report (PDF, 3.93MB)
Each year APA's Public Education Campaign produces a report detailing national and local public education efforts including the Mind/Body Health Public Education Campaign, The Psychologically Health Workplace Awards and the Disaster Response Network.